Reporting Abuse

The Archdiocese of Baltimore complies with Maryland laws requiring reporting supsected child abuse to civil authorities. Under Maryland Law any person who has reason to believe a child has been subjected to abuse must report the suspected abuse to civil authorities, even if the potential victim is now over 18 years old and even in cases where the alleged perpetrator is deceased. If someone associated with the Church, including clergy, employees, or volunteers of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, is suspected of abuse, then the suspected abuse must also be reported to the Archdiocesan, Office of Child and Youth at 410-547-5438 or the Victims Assistance Hotline at 1-866-417-7469.

If you know or suspect that a child has been abused or neglected, contact your local authorities right away. Or, for assistance, call the ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline (Staffed 24 hours daily by professional crisis counselors) at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.